The Italian National Institute of Health (ISS) along with the Italian National Institute for Insurance against Occupational Accidents (INAIL) and the Research Center for the Promotion and Development of Geriatric Care (CEPSAG) of Rome’s Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, have drafted a Handbook - a vademecum - for caregivers and for people living with and taking care of the elderly, who are among the most fragile individuals and as such greatly exposed to the risk of getting infected.
It is recommended they leave the house as little as possible, and if they do because it is absolutely necessary, they must stay at least one metre away from other people, wear a face mask at all times, avoid touching their faces, wash accurately and disinfect their hands once they get back home. Moreover, it is essential that caregivers and /or people living with the elderly wash their hands and wear a mask when approaching them to provide care.
It is important to know that the Italian Red Cross may, in case of need, deliver medicines and food products 24-7. It can be reached at the toll free number 800 065510. A psychological support service for the elderly is available every day from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m at the toll free number 800 991414.
If caregivers do not have full command of the Italian language, they may ask for support by calling the number 06/30156695, from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., or write an e-mail to CEPSAG at info.cepsag@gmail.com.
